Pay equity should be a priority

Times Transcript Sept 1

To The Editor:

The Coalition for Pay Equity began as the dream of a small group of Acadian Women. It has grown to include women from all walks of life in New Brunswick. The Coalition continues to advocate for the enactment of pay equity legislation in the New Brunswick private and public sectors. Pay equity is equal pay for equal work. Oct. 13, 2000, a petition was presented to the New Brunswick government with nearly 30,000 signatures, and a solidarity contract signed by 74 organizations representing over 65,000 persons.

It was interesting to see the advertisement presenting "Mr. Lord and the PC Team" getting results for our children, families and seniors. While we realize these groups include women, why have women's issues such as pay equity, and the day care assistance been overlooked? These issues are equally important to families, seniors and children, are they not?

Women work, pay taxes, live in poverty, defend our country, contribute to our communities. The Coalition for Pay Equity has met with government leaders and candidates from all parties. The Coalition urged all party leaders to put pay equity legislation on their next electoral platform. It is a priority.

Audrey McKeen,
Secretary Treasurer,
Coalition for Pay Equity,
Calhoun

Jody Dallaire
NB Child Care Coalition
Coalition des services de garde à l'enfance du N.-B.
Tel (506) 387-8738
Fax (866) 595-3101
jody.dallaire@rogers.com
www.nbccc-csgnb.ca